STAFF and patients at the York NHS walk-in centre are celebrating its third birthday.

The nurse-led service in Monkgate has treated more than 70,000 patients since opening in 2000.

Selby and York Primary Care Trust (PCT) operates the centre, which is run and staffed by registered nurses who are skilled in offering consultations to patients with minor illnesses and injuries.

Figures show that on average, more than 100 people use the centre on a daily basis.

Dr Sue Ross, chief executive of the PCT, said: "Over the last three years the centre has become an important part of NHS services in York.

"It has proved a popular way to access healthcare treatment and advice, not just for locals, but also for the many visitors to the city."

The centre was established as part of a national three-year pilot.

The Government recently confirmed funding will continue for another three years.

Walk-in centre manager Liz Vickerstaff said: "Having worked in the centre since it opened, it has been wonderful to be part of a service growing in response to patients' needs, and to be able to offer health care at a time that suits patients and their lifestyles.

"York NHS walk-in centre is a highly- visible sign of the modernising NHS, for residents and visitors."

Updated: 09:40 Thursday, April 24, 2003